Forest Fire Devastates Khotang District, 13 Homes Destroyed

A devastating forest fire in Barahapokhari Rural Municipality, Khotang district, has resulted in the destruction of 13 homes and additional properties on Wednesday. The fire, which originated from the local community forest, also destroyed seven lofts and two sheds.

Local officials have yet to estimate the total loss, but significant damage is reported. Ward Chair Dhak Bahadur Karki detailed the losses, including multiple homes and lofts belonging to residents such as Mohanlal Thapa Magar and Purna Bahadur Magar, as well as vital livestock shelters and other properties.

Among the severely affected, Gangamaya Magar of Dancingtar lost two houses and lofts, along with 40 goats, jewelry, and cash. Other residents, including Suman Magar and Lekhraj Khatiwada, also suffered losses as the fire spread through their communities.

Efforts by the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local residents to extinguish the fire have continued without success. This incident adds to a troubling tally of 109 fire incidents in the district since last mid-July, causing over Rs 40.9 million in damage.